RECTEM Rector Warns Against Slow AI Adoption in Nigeria
RECTEM Rector Warns Against Slow AI Adoption in Nigeria
UmarFarouk123 
Dr. (Mrs.) Oladunni Izobo-Martins, Acting Rector of the Redeemer's College of Technology and Management (RECTEM), has warned that Nigeria could lose its global technological relevance if the country continues to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital innovations at a slow pace.
Addressing participants at RECTEM’s 2026 TechDay event, themed “Taking Advantage of the Tech World to Build Wealth,” Dr. Izobo-Martins stressed that technology is no longer optional but a critical driver of national prosperity.
Key Insights from the Event:
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Risk of Falling Behind: Dr. Izobo-Martins cautioned that Nigeria’s slow technological adoption could perpetuate poverty. “If we are not moving in the way of the world, then it means we want to remain poor,” she said.
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Academic Leadership: She called on universities and research institutions to take the lead by presenting evidence-based results to government authorities, demonstrating how AI can transform society.
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Tech-Integrated Education: RECTEM has embedded technology across all its programmes, from engineering to management, to prepare graduates for the future workforce.
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Youth Empowerment: Keynote speaker and CEO of New Horizons, Tim Akano, reinforced the message, highlighting that technology is a liberating force in the 21st century and urging African youth to embrace the AI revolution to secure their economic and professional future.
Dr. Izobo-Martins also advocated for a holistic education model grounded in curriculum, character (fear of God), and competence, noting that responsible use of technology can simplify work, boost productivity, and expand economic opportunities.
